New Garden Security Website Launched by Essex Family
In light of the increasing number of household crimes in England and Wales, an Essex family has taken matters into their own hands by launching a new garden security website. The Gatland family, who reside in a quiet street on a corner plot, were inspired to create the website after realizing the difficulty of finding the right products to secure their own property.
Statistics from the official crime figures for England and Wales show that more than 9 out of 10 crimes against households involve thefts from outside the house. In the last 12-month reporting period, an estimated 517,000 thefts from gardens have taken place. These thefts often include items such as bicycles, children’s toys, delivery packages, tools, and garden furniture and equipment. Thieves have even been known to steal plant pots, specimen plants, and hanging baskets.
Chris Gatland, one of the founders of the website, explains, “The statistics we read were alarming. We wanted to take steps to protect our own property, and being on a corner plot, we were aware that our garden could be vulnerable to intruders, especially during the daytime when we are often out. We wanted to reduce the risk of losing some of the valuable items we’ve collected over the years.”
The Gatland family first became interested in garden and outbuilding security after visiting a ‘Secured Garden’ exhibition at their local RHS Garden, Hyde Hall. While there was a lot of helpful advice available from Essex Police, they found it difficult to source the products they had seen on display. Despite searching garden centres, DIY stores, and large trade tool and hardware retailers, they were unable to find all the necessary products in one place.
To fill this gap in the market, the Gatland family has launched www.mysecuregarden.co.uk, a one-stop online shop offering a comprehensive range of products to improve outdoor security and protect possessions that are often stored outside the home.
“When we first started researching garden and outbuilding security, we were complete amateurs,” admits Gatland. “But it became something of a passion project when we calculated the monetary value of the items we had stored outside, as well as in our garden shed and garage. When we also discovered just how many people are impacted by thefts from outside the house, we realized that the research we had done could be of real benefit to others. High-value items stolen from gardens, sheds, garages, and outbuildings are often not covered by standard insurance policies, so it’s worth checking your policy and putting some simple security measures in place.”
My Secure Garden offers a wide range of high-quality security products, many of which can be easily installed by DIY enthusiasts. As an independent, family-run business, the Gatlands prioritize excellent customer service and competitive prices. All products are sourced from specialist security brands and manufacturers, chosen for their applicability and value. They have also received awards for their design and independent accreditations for their quality and standards.
The website’s launch has been timed to coincide with the winter months, as the dark evenings typically see an increase in household crimes. “Unfortunately, the winter months provide more opportunity for crime,” confirms Gatland. “It’s sensible to secure outdoor buildings and spaces. If you’re looking for a practical Christmas gift for a family member who’s tricky to buy for, an outdoor security product might be appreciated!”
For more information, visit www.mysecuregarden.co.uk, and for helpful tips on protecting your garden and outbuildings, visit the Police website.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.